Lesson 9

Overview-
During this lesson students will have the opportunity to explore the internet to find information that proves and disproves our current theory of plate tectonics. From this lesson the students will demonstrate an understanding that theories evolve when new disoveries are made that are relevant to them. This lesson will give the students and opportunity to discover new information and review previous material covered in this unit.

Instructional Objectives:

- The students will analyze other causes for plate movements

Time 95 minutes Activity

15 minutes-
  • Review Key concepts from last class
    • 1. What magnetic stripping is, where it is found
    • 2. Magnetic stripping is evidence for Harry Hess’s theory for plate movements and why
    • 3. New crust is formed at ridge, older rock is furthest from the ridege.
  • Collect Homework, it will be reviewed and scored
55 minutes
-Ask the students, "Who believes the current theory of plate tectonics is correct." Take a poll, and see what the majority of the class says. Inform the students, that science is constantly trying to prove and disprove current theories to explain phenomena. Today they will use the internet to find new developments that either proves or disproves the theory of plate tectonics.
  • Transition to using the computers in the library. Every student will use their own computer. (Work is in thelibrary so each student can search the internet. Laptops only accommodates half a class)
  • Students will be reminded that they are in the library and they need to work quietly so not to disturb others.
  • Teacher will be walking around the computer area answering questions and asking probing questions to make sure students are on task and remain focused.
  • Students will complete the Web quest to discover new developments that explain plate movements. Searching the web will allow the students to review material that was already covered.
20 minutes
  • Collect web quest from students
  • Sign off of computers and return laptops
  • Meet as a class to discuss what was discovered during today's lesson. One discovery is the possibility that gravity is a cause of plate tectonics.
  • Hand out review for test. Read through the handout and answer any questions the students have.

Assignment-

  • Study review topics and prepare for test

Activity Materials needed-

  • Library computer lab
  • Library laptops

Resources for lessons